For Miracle Drug, ED Just Beginning
Because PDE5 inhibitors are so famous for their incredible ability to restore erections, people are often surprised to learn that they are useful for much more than that! The first of these types of erectile dysfunction medications was initially developed to treat angina, but once researchers learned of its special erectile properties, they pursued a pattern for ED. However, in the years since the famous blue pill has been on the market, doctors have continued to test its abilities and have learned it is one of the most versatile, useful drugs around.
Read on to see some of the amazing uses for your erectile dysfunction treatment.
Recovering from Jet Lag
Scientists in Buenos Aires discovered that PDE5, a common body chemical associated with erectile dysfunction, breaks down cGMP, which plays an important part in the regulation of the internal clock. When there are certain types of light changes, the clock will become distorted. This is what causes jet lag.
In order to put this knowledge to use in recovering faster from jet lag or preventing it entirely, doctors are turning to PDE5 inhibitors, which are known for treating erectile dysfunction. As of 2008, this treatment is already in use.
Lowering High Blood Pressure
Part of the initial research for the now famous erectile dysfunction drugs was to treat high blood pressure. The drugs actually do this quite effectively, though other medications may be preferred for various reasons. However, PDE5is are actually quite commonly used since it does multiple things for patients.
Helping Stroke Patients Recover
The effects of sildenafil in helping stroke patients recover are still being studied, but earlier studies have been promising. Doctors think that medical treatment within three days of the stroke could help patients recover speech, thinking, and movement more quickly. It does this by aiding cGMP in creating new brain cells.
Helping Underweight Fetuses
When a pregnant woman has intrauterine growth restriction, the baby is often born smaller than expected. Since doctors can see this condition well before birth, they think that treating while the mother is still carrying the fetus may increase chances for a healthy birth. Erectile dysfunction medications may increase blood supply to the womb. This increased flow allows for better nutrition and oxygen availability. There is a chance otherwise underweight babies will be born of a healthy size.
Fighting Degeneration in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Multiple sclerosis (MS) effects hundreds of thousands of people in the United States, mostly women, and is a deadly debilitating condition. It affects patients through degenerating the nervous system. Studies from Auburn University suggest that Viagra may prevent some of that degeneration.
Improving Memory and Learning
Increased blood flow and better glucose processing, as well as modified levels of cGMP, are often results of Viagra use. These things can potentially increase learning ability or keep mental faculties higher for longer. This may slow the effects of aging and be an important treatment for Alzheimer’s patients.
Preventing Gangrene in Raynaud’s Patients
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a common and extremely painful condition that is caused by poor blood flow to the extremities, especially the fingers. Viagra may increase the blood flow enough to restore healthy circulation and prevent gangrene. In some patients in the Maryland study, their symptoms disappeared entirely.